Beyond my Control: One Man's Struggle with Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond

by Stuart Ross McCallum

Stuart Ross McCallum shares a true account of his battle with epilepsy-beginning with the peculiar sensations he experienced as a teenager that led to his diagnosis and concluding with his eventual recovery from a temporal lobe lobectomy.McCallum vividly describes his twenty-year journey of living with epilepsy and how this unpredictable disease has not only impacted his life but the lives of everyone around him. For years he operated a business and managed his staff while battling an ever-increasing number of seizures. As his condition worsened and his postseizure responses became more intense, he was often prone to violent outbursts that threatened his safety as well as the safety of those in his inner circle. McCallum shares how the perception of the disease and the socially unacceptable behaviors that occurred as a result of his seizures eventually forced him to risk everything-he made the life-altering decision to undergo two brain operations that he hoped would provide freedom from a life of instability, danger, and stares from strangers.Beyond My Control provides an honest, emotional look into a highly complex and often misunderstood condition and how one man's perseverance helped him break through the darkness to find hope on the other side.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Medical, Biography, Medicine

106 pages, Paperback

First published May 4, 2008

About the author

Hello Friends,

My book titled: Beyond my Control is the true story of my life, beginning with my battle trying to beat the slimming disease — anorexia nervosa. While trying to break the vicious cycle I was in, another condition suddenly entered my life — epilepsy. I was seventeen.

I describe my twenty-year journey of living with epilepsy and how the unpredictable disease has not only impacted my life but the lives of everyone around me. For fifteen of those years, I operated my stained glass business and managed staff while battling an ever-increasing number of seizures. As the condition deteriorated and my post seizure responses became more intense, I was often prone to violent outbursts that threatened not only my safety, but the safety of everyone close to me.

I share how the perception of the disease and the socially unacceptable behaviours that occurred as a result of my post seizure responses, eventually forced me to risk everything — I made the life-altering decision to undergo two major brain operations that I hoped would provide freedom from a life of instability, danger, and stares from strangers.

Beyond my Control is an honest, emotional look into a highly complex and all too often misunderstood condition. If you are like me and enjoy reading true stories written from the heart, my highly personal book is sure to be both entertaining and at times — enlightening. No, it is not to heavy, there is humour shining all the way through.

Thank you, all the best Stuart

Reviews

[Jen Knox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epilepsy is a condition I've read personal accounts of in the past, most of which have been vague or difficult to fully grasp; it seems there are few more difficult topics to (successfully) communicate than a neurological disorder and many personal accounts end up vague or overly-clinical. This is why Stuart McCallum's book is so incredible.

While reading Beyond My Control, I felt the transcendence of a good book--it was as though I entered another world, a world in which I felt I understood what it was like to be at the mercy of this confounding neurological disorder. Stuart McCallum vividly recalls his life before his diagnosis and the confusion of Epilepsy's onset, but he doesn't cower. In fact, Stuart doesn't spend his pages wallowing in self-pity or asking "why me?" but instead inspires his readers with his courage and strength.

This is a story about one man's battle with Epilepsy, but it is a story for anyone who knows what it feels like to have life uprooted in an instant, who know the shock and helpless feeling of entering the unknown, but who refuse to be defeated by it.

[LA · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must admit that I read this book with a heavy bias. After knowing the author for a while and having a sense of the wonderful family that he has, I never imagined that his experiences with epilepsy to have been so tragic and difficult, yet the family has remained intact and successful. Truly a success story in itself.

One of the reasons that this book will forever remain on my bookshelf is not because I know him, but because he is completely honest about his experiences. He tells about the myriad difficulties that his condition have caused his family, as well as for him professionally. He never makes medical diagnoses or advocates a particular course of action, emphatically stating that he is not a medical professional. This makes the book even more valuable because it lacks the bias of a medical community that is all too often influenced by various lobbyists and drug manufacturers.

After reading this memoir and about the episodes of violence that his condition created, I have even more respect for him. His bravery and willingness to tell about his struggles is one to be emulated by us all. He is an example of what is "right" with this world.

[Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond My Control is a wonderful book. Quick and to the point, without any fluff, author Stuart Ross McCallum describes the uncertain hell of living for over twenty years with temporal lobe epilepsy. He talks about the early, confusing warning signs, the escalating symptoms and full-blown emergence of TLE and the risky surgery he eventually faced.

Although a close family member of mine has epilepsy, it was not until reading this book had I ever heard of temporal lobe epilepsy and had an inkling of what someone suffering from this seizure disorder has to endure.

McCallum’s seizures were always preceded by “auras” that let him know a seizure was about to happen. Seizures are difficult enough, but with temporal lobe epilepsy, McCallum never knew how he would behave, what he would say, or even whether he might be a danger to others. The title of this memoir, Beyond My Control, is truly the perfect way to describe the events of this author’s life.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond My Control: One Man's Struggle with Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Stuart Ross McCallum)
An emotional story told from Mr. McCallum's experience. From the beginning before his diagnosis, during (his) treatment and the ultimate surgery, Beyond had my full attention. Told through Stuarts voice, he takes us on the journey of life with seizures, the fears, the hopes the disappointments. Very informative and encouraging. One courageous man, left me feeling I can overcome any obstacle life throws my way. Fantastic read, from a wonderful man. I Highly recommend to everyone. I do hope to see more work from Stuart Ross McCallum.

[Laura Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stuart McCallum's book was one of my favs of the year! I enjoyed his story so much that I wrote a review on Amazon. His journey transcends his experience in that it inspires us all to feel alive and hopeful:)What a fabulous book and highly recommend it to all!

[K.G. Cummings · Rating 5 out of 5]

In his autobiography, Beyond My Control, Stuart Ross McCallum reveals his life by placing it out in the open for the world to view. The good. the bad, and the experiences that he has no recollection of due to his seizures are written in a manner that draws the reader into his world. That world was often frightening, not only to himself, but to those closest to him. Those same people would relay the often violent details of the episodes to him after each seizure had passed, yet they remained loyally by his side. With a family and staff that loved and supported him, he was able to maintain a lucrative business in spite of the physical discomfort, and hardships he endured.

This reader found the book captivating inasmuch as it was enlightening, yet written on a level that wasn't geared exclusively toward the medical community. That gave it a much more personal touch, making it very relatable to people that have observed others with physical, or medical conditions that are not easily controlled. Clearly, Mr. McCallum is not the type of person to sit back and feel sorry for himself. He aggressively sought medical attention to attempt to control a condition which for many years appeared to be out of the realm of possibility. This survivor spirit ultimately led to making the decision of a lifetime, in spite of not so promising odds.

By candidly sharing his experiences, along with giving tribute to those instrumental in his survival and recovery from delicate brain surgery, Stuart Ross McCallum has endeared himself to this reader. His thoughtfulness to others, his love of family and friends, his consideration to customers, and staff illustrates that in the end, instead of seizures controlling him, he seized control.

I highly recommend the book Beyond My Control by Stuart Ross McCallum.

kgcummings... Kathy, author of
The Wind Whispers War and it's sequels

[Lisette Brodey · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Stuart Ross McCallum's Beyond My Control, I felt like I had just finished having a warm, open conversation with a good friend. This very personable author does a wonderful job of taking the reader through his twenty-year struggle with epilepsy.

McCallum's first awareness of epilepsy began with peculiar auras that produced sensations unlike anything he'd ever known. As time went on, these auras became a warning that something much more serious was about to happen. McCallum then began to experience violent frightening episodes that not only threatened his well-being, but those around him. This was all the more terrifying as he could not remember the wild things he would do and say after the episodes had ended. They were, as the title of this memoir indicates, beyond his control.

After much suffering, McCallum is eventually presented with the opportunity to consider seizure surgery -- and to consider the pros and cons of living with the most important decision of his life.

What I most appreciated about this book was the author's deep love and gratitude toward his family and friends, especially his wife, Lisa. What I found extremely valuable in McCallum's story is that I learned much more about the full scope of epilepsy than I ever knew. This was truly a compelling, eye-opening story that was a true pleasure to read. It is an easy and engaging read by a true gentleman.

[Ginnetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think of a perfect soul. Stuart emits friendship, love and style to those he comes in contact with. Never any negativity or hard feelings towards anyone. I find myself wondering what it would be like to ghost walk into Stuart's gallery with him not knowing I read his story. A fairytale-Mister Rogers existence. Surrounded by beauty and happiness. Yet, never lasting forever.
Stuart emits this persona that sticks to a goal of having a good life through his glass business and also a genuine love of life with his family and loyal friends. Only the seizures get in the way. Nothing else. This is the beauty of Stuart's book. Stuart shows the reader a lesson of what matters in life and why. Nothing else.
Anybody suffering should read this story for it's positive message of hope.

[Caroline S Whitman · Rating 5 out of 5]

We really have no control over how our live's will pan out. Some will sail through not truely seeing what others see because it is only when they experience life first hand that they can understand what others must endure. I think this is the case with Beyond my Control. The writers perception in life changed through the book as his experiences escalated.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about Epilepsy or who love reading true stories of hope, humour, sadness and inspiration.
regards

[Carol Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book on one brave man's struggle
with Epilepsy. Stuart is a champion for a disease that few of us understood until he wrote this magnificent book, highlighting specific symptoms of his disease. This is a great book that I would recommend to readers of all ages.

[Dee Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I originally purchased “Beyond My Control,” by Stuart “Ross” McCallum, thinking it would be a casual, yet interesting read. However, once I started reading the first chapter, I literally could not put it down until I had finished the book.

Although the book is a biographical, and at times harrowing tale, of Ross’ struggles to find normalcy within an anomalous world of coping with epilepsy…the story flows with the feeling of a well-organized novel, rather than a dry, retelling of factual events.

Upon finishing his story, the realization that Ross survived his life-struggling ordeal (and lived to write about his experiences in an intellectual, often humorous manner)...is a miracle in itself. His story is more than an account of how Ross and his family, friends, and co-workers dealt with his epileptic episodes; it is also a fascinating look into the often misunderstood side-effects of the illness.

Ross’ story is filled with heartache and hilarity; written in an educational and entertaining manner. “Beyond My Control” is a must-read, not just for the informative aspects of coping with a disabling illness, but more importantly for the pure “reading enjoyment” of his story.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

With great wealth of spirit, admirable candor, and delightful wit, Stuart McCallum recounts his complex and oftentimes heartbreaking battle with epilepsy. From the very first page I was pulled into Mr. McCallum's life and the complexities of his interior (and sometimes exterior) wars. This wonderful book is far more than Mr. McCallum's autobiographical account of epilepsy; it is a celebration of a man's incredible courage, his honesty, and his eventual triumph. It is also a testament to the strength of family love.

There's so much to admire about this book, and the manner in which it was written is among them. What could have easily segued into a black-and-white medical account of epilepsy became an engrossing, very human story with novel-like qualities. I highly recommend this book, and from front cover to back, it is worthy of five stars!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stuart Ross McCallum shares a true account of his battle with epilepsy-beginning with the peculiar sensations he experienced as a teenager that led to his diagnosis and concluding with his eventual recovery from a temporal lobe lobectomy.McCallum vividly describes his twenty-year journey of living with epilepsy and how this unpredictable disease has not only impacted his life but the lives of everyone around him.

Stuart shares a heartwrenching story with us that breaks down the barriers of the neurological disease, this is a must read book. The moment I started reading I could not put it down. To me this was also a love story between Stuart and his wife, if not for her strength and love, this book may not be here to educate us. I highly recommend this book.

[Linda Newton-Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very helpful book for those who have Epilepsy and those who have family and friends with Epilepsy. McCallum describes the stages of this unpredictable disease, of how it overshadowed his life for twenty years.
In my estimation Stuart Ross McCallum is a strong warrior of mind and body. He has through his book BEYOND MY CONTROL shared with us his battles, where we can learn from his very real wars (they were many) to win the larger battle of good health and sound mind. Hurrah! Hurrah! My friend, Stuart Ross McCallum.
(From Linda-Newton Perry author of FORCED BLOOD THE NORSEMAN)

[Rob Dinsmoor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Beyond My Control in essentially two sittings. It is about the author's dealing with decades of temporal lobe epilepsy with honesty, courage, and no shortage of humor. It starts with his developing an eating disorder and then segues into his continued battle with epilepsy. He describes his auras (which I have learned about as a medical writer), his seizures, and what he describes as his post-seizure states, during which his behavior runs from the ridiculous to the aggressive. Ironically, he was in the worst possible field for someone with epilepsy--someone who runs a store selling and installing stained glass!

After his seizures, he would run in turns being overly affectionate, intimidating, and violent. The epilepsy may have helped ruin his business. The book follows him through various medication regimens and various doctors, some very compassionate and other not. (My favorite example of the latter was the psychiatrist who stuffed tissue in her nose to hide the fact she was eating a sandwich during the consult!) The book culminates in his deciding to undergo two very risky and painful surgeries to have the offending part of the brain resected, which caused the most bizarre (and very interesting) hallucinations. At the end of this ordeal, he emerged as a more compassionate person, helping to alleviate others' pain. He fearlessly shares his scariest and most embarrassing moments, and more books should do this.

I have written about epilepsy from a medical perspective, but this book helped me understand how it changes one's perspective and sense of self. It was interesting to me as a casual bystander, but I think it's a must-read for someone who has epilepsy or has epilepsy in the family.

[Carole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond my Control – one man’s struggle with epilepsy, seizure surgery and beyond, says it all.

Until I read this book, I had no idea that such a condition existed. I knew, of course, about epilepsy, but not that it could take such an aggressive stand. In his book, McCallum shares deeply private moments of his life, battling against this disease. I can only stand back and admire how he and his wife Lisa coped. In spite of the pain, the depression, the uncertainty of every day, and the shame he felt at his unruly behaviour, Ross still comes out with a sense of humour. I had to laugh when he compared himself to Basil Fawlty – a great description, and I could see it all. The one thing I wanted to take up with him was his sense of shame. He should never have felt that. He was not to blame.

I found the book informative. At the end of it, I felt as though I had really learned something important. It could happen to any of us. I was surprised how long it took after surgery for him to get his life back. I can only imagine how devastating it must have been day after day wondering if it had all been worthwhile. I feel privileged that his book Beyond my Control allowed me to share a few moments of his battle

Keep Healthy, Ross, and may you have a long, happy life to make up for the time you’ve lost.

[Thersa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed _Beyond My Control_. This is a book about one man's life -- but what a life (!) and what a man (!). I could feel the fear the author had as he lived every day not knowing when the next seizure might take place and what might happen during a post seizure episode. And yet, Stuart is not a dark, brooding, bitter man. His humor shines through the pages, as does his love, curiosity, and quest for health.

This book was inspiring and humbling and I will most definitely recommend it to all my friends.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've had the pleasure of interviewing and speaking with Stuart. I'm amazed at his honest and forthright storytelling. He is a truly compassionate man, who doesn't spend time crying, "why me" (although not a soul would think poorly of him if he did!) Even in his worst moments with Epilepsy, he endures--and there in is the essence of the story: hang on, don't give up hope even when you don't think you should hope.

I guarantee the reader this book will give you perspective on any problem you may be experiencing. It's worth your time.

[Shalonda Williams-Lynard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I give this book two thumbs up. It took courage to write and I commend Stuart for writing it. I wrote my full review here
http://hubpages.com/hub/Book-Review-B...

[Sammy Sutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

More About: Beyond My Control, One Man's Struggle With Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond,
By Stuart Ross McCallum


I recently decided to share more in depth thoughts about Stuart Ross McCallum’s BEYOND MY CONTROL. Previously, I wrote about it in the context of my son’s battle with epilepsy, and his personal thoughts. I am happy to say it is the most read review I have posted thus far. However, I can’t help, but feel I need to say more.

Stuart’s battle with epilepsy began in his teens. A time, we can all identify as difficult. Like so many others, it manifested in strange incidents that could easily be confused as other conditions. In his book, Stuart shares this scary confusion in a clear and concise story, the story of his life.

Science, now, informs us that 1 in 23 people will experience a seizure and/or epilepsy in their lifetime. This condition is much more common than once believed. The truth is, unlike my son whom has struggled with it since birth, 70% of the people will be struck later in life. Many will recognize an obvious trigger others are not so obvious.

Like many illnesses, conquering epilepsy is relative. Controlling seizures, even with dynamic medical intervention, is a way of life. Stuart sheds light upon the nature of the disease, treatment, and research. His own situation gives credence to the celebration of the things one can control, and to the people that matter. Stuart’s story reveals a strong and supportive woman, admirable in her own right, his wife Lisa. Together, they form an effective bond.

Stuart is a humble man. This is evident in his story, genuinely told to inform, educate, and comfort individuals and families. He shares with dignity the impact the epilepsy places on his and his family’s life. BEYOND MY CONTROL is a real-life journey, guided by a soldier against epilepsy in his own life, but, also, a warrior for others.

[Nikki Crick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond my Control is one the most powerful heart wrenching stories I have been fortunate enough to read. Stuart shares his inner most thoughts with his readers. I truly felt honoured to be on his journey with him.

He writes about childhood briefly, his struggle to with anorexia nervosa, and starting and maintaining his stained glass business whilst experiencing 'peculiar sensations'.

My heart ached for him to find a diagnosis, for him to find peace, and sign he was not losing his sanity.

McCallum's easy-going nature and humour are self-evident in the book, even through his frustration and depression, he writes with warmth and the ability to laugh at himself.

McCallum documents his journey into depression, although expected, clearly and emotionally with a candid honesty that is refreshing.

Stuart freely allows his feelings to show from his impatience and frustration at being unable to find a true diagnosis, through his scared and shameful reaction to his own behaviour, to his love for his beautiful wife and children.

McCallum writes in an almost apologetic tone for the majority of the book. He is ashamed and remorseful of his behaviour, although it was beyond his control.

My overwhelming reaction to the book is one of admiration for McCallum and his family, for being able to live this life and still be strong and loving. Stuart and Lisa, his wife, are both people with incredible strength and dignity.

I would definitely recommended this book to anyone who enjoys true life stories, memoirs, or who wants to learn more about what it is like to live with this disease.

It is a truly remarkable book, written by a remarkable gentleman, whom I wish good health and success.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book is a fascinating read of Stuart McCallum's experience with Epilepsy. I must admit that I knew very little about Epilepsy before reading this book, only that it was a condition causing random seizures. This is such an important book because it documents one man's experience of this very cruel condition which will help others who are going through the same or similar problems, and anyone who has a loved one battling against this condition. On a wider scale, it is also a story of great courage, strength of character, faith and determination. The great thing about this little book is that Stuart McCallum is a very ordinary man, he doesn't have any great or mysterious character traits which would set him apart from you or I, and he tells his story in a way that can be understood by everyone. It could be anyone's story; everyone struggles in one way or another in life — we all have our cross to bear. Stuart's story is valuable as a lesson to us all that the human spirit is capable of facing many adversities and surviving. Most of all it is a message to never give in, and to carry on enjoying life, being grateful for what you have. It is not bogged down in medical detail, but does explain the ins and outs of the condition very well. It is written with humour, showing how this courageous soul was able to come out of life threatening surgery and retain a very positive view of life. I really enjoyed reading the book and congratulate Stuart McCallum on writing such an inspirational book about his journey. It was very well written, and even though there were a few editorial issues, these did not distract from the story because it is a very fast paced read.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to congratulate Ross McCallum on his courage in writing about his horrendous journey, from the many misdiagnoses in his teenage years, through to the diagnosis of epilepsy, and his years of experiencing seizures, with awful after effects. The love and devotion of his parents, Mac and Verna, and his sister Karen, then the love and extreme support and loyalty of his beautiful wife Lisa, and two wonderful children, helped sustain him throughout a life of continual doctors, specialists and tests.

While Ross and his family were battling the effects of epilepsy, and trying to create a normal family life in Melbourne, Australia, many other things were happening to knock them off the rails. One step forward, two steps back proved to be their case for many, many years.

I would recommend this story to everyone, whether you are connected to someone suffering from epilepsy or not. This tale of endurance and courage is one that affects people in many walks of life, and the words from Ross at the end of his book are aimed at everyone... Enjoy life, I wish everyone well, and survive any adversities that you may encounter along the way.

Ross, I wish you and your family all the best for a wonderful future. And thank you so much for sharing your story.

[Andrea Kulman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book about one mans struggle with Epilepsy... I do not have Epilepsy nor do I know anyone personally who does. With that said- The author makes the reader feel as if they are asking him the questions and he is simply answering. I intended on reading one chapter, however, that one chapter turned into reading the book in its entirety. Within 6 hours I had been on an emotional rollercoaster ride that will probably stick with me for a lifetime. I felt the book was so good that I passed it on to my mother... normally, she passes them to me. I feel that is the highest compliment I can offer to this author. 5 stars easily! It will not surprise me at all to find this book among the top sellers list.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Throughout this book, I myself was drawn to Stuart's remarkable bravery to continue the search for a new treatment. He endured so many struggles with seizures coupled with an uncertainty of occurrence and an embarrassment, but never gave up, only to gain the strength to overcome.

I commend him for rising above and sharing those difficult moments. I would recommend his book for people who have no hope in seeking medical adice. I would also recommend this as a required reading for Neurology Interns because it is the one on one example illustrating their field of medicine.

Thank you Stuart.

[Marta Moran Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant and inspirational account of one man's struggle to live, love and laugh, while living through twenty years of seizure's and their aftermath. I cannot recommend this highly enough. Kudos to Stuart Ross McCallum for having the guts and stamina to not only live through this experience but to share it with the world.

A heart felt and heart warming story, that leaves you both gasping at the struggle and inspired by the courage of the author.

[Sandra Yuen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stuart Ross McCallum’s 'Beyond My Control' is a true story of triumph over epilepsy. In his revealing account, he shows the extreme behaviour changes he experienced, pain and struggle. He seemed keenly aware of how his behaviour affected others. He wanted to protect others in case he got out of control, but he also made sure others understood his seizures were temporary and he would be back to normal soon enough. Apologetic and polite, he cared about other people’s perceptions or comfort level.

When the medication stopped working, the result was sometimes the return of seizures. I found it remarkable to read about his determination and motivation to rise above his disorder. He didn’t seem to give up hope as he pushed through adversity. He took a chance to undergo various tests and surgical treatment. His courage is to be applauded. His family was very supportive.

I recommend this book as insightful and inspirational. Stuart has strength of character and resolve, and writes in a concise, sincere, genuine manner.

[Elin Waldal · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Beyond My Control, Stuart Ross McCallum brings the reader into his experience living with epilepsy. Given my own family suffered a death resulting from epilepsy I was very interested to understand more fully what living with this condition was like.
Stuart shares with unflinching detail the episodes he experienced as a result of his affliction--frightening, uncharacteristic behaviors of which he had no control or memory. I felt such empathy for the man behind the keyboard telling his story in hopes that the world would understand the affects epilepsy can have. The beauty in his story is it is interwoven with his gentle nature and desire to live a life where he is in charge of his behavior not his disease. Against all odds and with guidance from the medical field Stuart takes the ultimate risk to reclaim the man he knew himself to be. A courageous story which informs the reader about this all to misunderstood condition.

[Dean Mayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stuart Ross McCallum's account of his decades long struggle with temporal lobe epilepsy is an absorbing and often traumatic journey but one that reveals the true nature of one man's courage in incredible circumstances. McCallum's journey is retold with genuine warmth and honesty and, simultaneously, it doesn't hold back from the revelations of the darker side of his experience. This is a fully realized and accessible account that doesn't labour. Additionally, it is personable and reflects the very nature of the man himself - one who has faced and stared down much more adversity than most of us will ever experience in our life times, yet he retains a passion for life, his family and friends and most of all, humanity itself. This is indeed one of those accounts that resonates with you, long after you have turned the final page.

A luminous journey.

[Amber Leggette-aldrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Beyond My Control" touched my heart in a very personal & profound way. The open, honest descriptions and explanations give the reader a first hand view of the struggles that people with epilepsy face. It also shares the hope and encouragement of recovery. The ability to laugh at himself and his situation shows a fine character trait that the world could use a lot more of, to bring more smiles than frowns into our lives.

I highly recommend this book for everyone, not just those associated with epilepsy. It has some great lessons for humanity about the spirit to conquer our fears and dealing with our problems.